Learn how temporary and contract work can help you test the waters, build your network, and increase your income while you transition to a new career.

Career changes often come with not knowing what you do not know. The best insight you can get from temp and contract work is understanding your transferable skills and your gaps. Since 70% of what we retain as adult learners is through experiential learning, this type of works is your best way to build knowledge and skills while focusing directly on the application of them. You also get feedback on your work and not necessarily on your ability to navigate corporate politics. Ultimately, you see the possibilities of your new career objectively based on results, and that can be a powerful way to grow and evolve into that next opportunity.

You’re considering a career change. How can you use temporary and contract work to make it happen?

If you’re feeling stuck or bored in your current career, you might be thinking about making a switch. But changing careers can be daunting, especially if you don’t have the relevant experience, skills, or network in your desired field. How can you explore new opportunities and gain valuable insights without risking your income or reputation? One possible solution is to use temporary and contract work as a stepping stone to your career change. Here are some benefits and tips on how to make the most of this flexible and diverse option.

1 Benefit 1: Test the waters

Temporary and contract work can help you test the waters of a new career without committing to a full-time role. You can try out different projects, industries, and organizations that interest you and see if they match your expectations, goals, and values. You can also learn new skills, tools, and methods that can boost your resume and portfolio. Plus, you can avoid the stress and hassle of quitting your current job or explaining a gap in your employment history.

Add your perspective

Load more contributions

2 Benefit 2: Build your network

Temporary and contract work can also help you build your network in your target field. You can meet and impress potential employers, mentors, and peers who can offer you feedback, referrals, and opportunities. You can also demonstrate your interpersonal communication skills, such as listening, collaborating, and problem-solving, which are essential for any career. By showing your value and professionalism, you can create a positive reputation and a strong personal brand.

Add your perspective

3 Benefit 3: Increase your income

Temporary and contract work can also help you increase your income while you transition to a new career. You can negotiate your rates based on your skills, experience, and market demand. You can also take advantage of tax deductions for expenses related to your work, such as equipment, travel, and education. Additionally, you can enjoy the flexibility and autonomy of choosing your own hours, projects, and clients.

Add your perspective

4 Tip 1: Set your goals

Before you start looking for temporary and contract work, you need to set your goals and expectations for your career change. What are you hoping to achieve, learn, or discover? What are your strengths, weaknesses, and interests? What are the skills, qualifications, and experience required for your desired role? How much time and money are you willing to invest in your transition? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and focus on the most relevant and rewarding opportunities.

Add your perspective

5 Tip 2: Search strategically

Once you have your goals in mind, you need to search strategically for temporary and contract work that aligns with them. You can use various sources, such as online platforms, job boards, agencies, and referrals, to find suitable projects and clients. You can also tailor your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to highlight your transferable skills and achievements. Moreover, you can network with people in your target field and ask for advice, recommendations, and introductions.

Add your perspective

6 Tip 3: Evaluate your progress

As you take on temporary and contract work, you need to evaluate your progress and adjust your plan accordingly. You can track your income, expenses, and workload to ensure that you’re meeting your financial and personal needs. You can also solicit and reflect on feedback, testimonials, and reviews to measure your performance and improvement. Furthermore, you can review your goals and satisfaction regularly and decide if you want to continue, change, or end your temporary and contract work.

Add your perspective

Novena Riojas LCSW

Executive Director of Central Operations @ NYC ACS | Program Evaluation |Administration |TEDx Speaker| Author|
Report contribution
Temporary work can be used to step into a desired change in your career because: You may have access to the hiring team in a way that another applicant does not. A company may be more likely to retain a promising and qualified candidate they know over a promising qualified candidate they do not know. Temp to perm jobs can position a candidate to move into a permanent position.

Like

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

Latrice Torres, SPHR

+20 Years of Making People Awesome | Career Strategist | HR Talent Strategy Consultant | CEO, LeaderKeys™ Consulting, LLC | Executive Director, The Great Exhale™
Report contribution
Career changes often come with not knowing what you do not know. The best insight you can get from temp and contract work is understanding your transferable skills and your gaps. Since 70% of what we retain as adult learners is through experiential learning, this type of works is your best way to build knowledge and skills while focusing directly on the application of them. You also get feedback on your work and not necessarily on your ability to navigate corporate politics. Ultimately, you see the possibilities of your new career objectively based on results, and that can be a powerful way to grow and evolve into that next opportunity.

Like

You’re considering a career change. How can you use temporary and contract work to make it happen?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Benefit 1: Test the waters

2 Benefit 2: Build your network

3 Benefit 3: Increase your income

4 Tip 1: Set your goals

5 Tip 2: Search strategically

6 Tip 3: Evaluate your progress

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Communication

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Interpersonal Communication

More relevant reading

You’re considering a career change. How can you use temporary and contract work to make it happen?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Benefit 1: Test the waters

2 Benefit 2: Build your network

3 Benefit 3: Increase your income

4 Tip 1: Set your goals

5 Tip 2: Search strategically

6 Tip 3: Evaluate your progress

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Communication

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills